Blepharoplasty: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
By removing excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids, blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that improves the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. If the upper eyelids are sagging and obstructing the view of some people, blepharoplasty can also improve their vision.
Causes of Blepharoplasty
People may choose to have blepharoplasty for various reasons, such as:
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To enhance their facial appearance and look more youthful and alert.
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To correct droopy or hooded eyelids that make them look tired or sad.
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To reduce puffiness or bags under the eyes that give them a worn-out look.
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To improve their vision by removing excess skin that blocks their peripheral vision.
Blepharoplasty is usually performed for cosmetic purposes, but it may also be medically necessary in some cases, such as:
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To treat eyelid disorders, such as ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid), ectropion (turning out of the lower eyelid), or entropion (turning in of the lower eyelid).
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To remove benign or malignant tumors or growths on the eyelids.
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To repair eyelid injuries or defects caused by trauma, burns, or infections.
Symptoms of Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty does not cause any symptoms, but it can address some of the symptoms that people may experience due to aging or other factors that affect their eyelids, such as:
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Loose or sagging skin that creates folds on the upper eyelids or hangs over the eyelashes.
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Excess fatty deposits that make the eyelids look swollen or puffy.
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Fine wrinkles or creases on the lower eyelids or around the eyes.
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Dark circles or hollows under the eyes that make them look sunken or tired.
Diagnosis of Blepharoplasty
In order to perform a blepharoplasty, a qualified plastic surgeon or ophthalmologist must evaluate the patient thoroughly. The doctor will examine the patient’s eyelids and facial features, and ask about their medical history, expectations, and goals for the surgery. As part of the examination, the doctor will also examine the patient's vision, eye health, and tear production. The doctor will determine if the patient is a good candidate for blepharoplasty, and will discuss the risks, benefits, alternatives, and costs of the procedure.
Treatment of Blepharoplasty
Under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, blepharoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Depending on the extent and complexity of the correction, the surgery can last one to three hours. Incisions will be made along the natural creases of the upper eyelids, below the lash line, or inside the lower eyelids. Once the excess skin, fat, and muscle has been removed or repositioned, the surgeon will close the incisions with fine sutures, skin glue, or tape. Lasers and chemical peels can also be used to resurface the skin and improve its texture and appearance.
Prevention of Blepharoplasty
Although blepharoplasty is not a permanent solution, there are some steps people can take to prevent or delay the need for blepharoplasty, such as:
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Protecting the eyes and skin from sun damage by wearing sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen.
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Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can accelerate skin aging and cause dehydration and inflammation.
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Maintaining a healthy diet and weight, which can prevent fluid retention and fat accumulation in the eyelids.
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Getting enough sleep and rest, which can reduce stress and fatigue that can worsen the appearance of the eyes.
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Using gentle and moisturizing eye creams or gels, which can hydrate and nourish the delicate skin around the eyes.
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Doing regular eye exercises or massages, which can stimulate blood circulation and relax the eye muscles.
